Imagine living in a rural area in New Zealand and being told your lifeline—the way you access banking, food, and human contact—is about to be cut off. But not being directly informed. Instead, being told, "our coverage map says you have 4G" when you absolutely don't. You might get one bar of 4G on a clear, sunny day, but your climate is characterized by cloud or rain for 75% of the year. Now imagine being elderly and having a phone that only works on 3G, the only phone you know how to operate. Imagine the fear and helplessness of not being able to call for help if you fall. This is the reality facing many in our rural communities as the shutdown of the 3G network looms over New Zealand.

With the impending closure of the 3G network, thousands of rural families are at risk of being left without essential phone or internet services. This is not just an inconvenience; it's a serious threat to safety, connectivity, and quality of life. Many rural residents already struggle with limited access and are being unjustly told that they should have 4G service, which they don't. Current maps are inaccurate and misleading, and the assumption that all New Zealanders have access to 4G is simply untrue.

Around 13% of New Zealand's population live in rural areas. For them, technology is not just a tool for convenience, but a vital link to the outside world. Disengaging these communities from the network would be equivalent to severing their lifelines. During emergencies, such as natural disasters that New Zealand is prone to, these residents rely on mobile networks to receive vital information and stay connected with loved ones.

We propose that before any 3G networks are shut down, a thorough and transparent review of the actual network coverage and accessibility in rural New Zealand is conducted. Telecommunication companies must ensure that genuine, verifiable 4G coverage is available and consistent for all affected communities. Additionally, programs should be initiated to assist the elderly and those unable to easily transition to new technology.

This is an appeal for fairness, safety, and humane treatment of all New Zealanders, regardless of where they live. Help protect our rural communities' access to vital communication services. Please join us in urging telecommunications providers and government bodies to reconsider the decision to shut down the 3G network until reliable alternatives are guaranteed.

Sign this petition to ensure that no Kiwi is left isolated and without a means to connect to the world.